I agree wholeheartedly that one should study and learn at least a few basics before buying a Japanese sword.
Personally, I studied for probably 5 years or so before ever buying my first genuine Nihonto. Of course I was lucky to have full access to two enormous and incredible collections for study or I may not have been able to hold out that long.
This thread is a perfect example of why people
should study.
Anyone who thought like the OP; that the sword in question was Japanese, genuine, old, beautiful, etc., etc., needs education and guidance. Even if you read a few books, look at some sites and gain some basic knowledge, guidance by someone you can trust is still a very valuable asset when it come to purchasing a Japanese sword.
However, another side of that coin is the reality that many individuals don't want to invest the necessary time studying. I have had so many guys write and say they don't want to read, study, learn. Or wives who want to buy their husbands a sword as a gift. They have no inclination or time to study, they simply want to buy a legitimate Japanese "Samurai" sword. They generally come to me via recommendation, for guidance in obtaining a genuine antique Japanese sword. So, I do my best to help.
I do this because I enjoy helping people get into this hobby. And I do, do it as a hobby, not as a means of income.
Plus, I hate to see people get ripped off (think OP). If the OP had come to me in the beginning, or posted here prior to buying I/we could have prevented him from spending his money on junk whether he bought anything or not.
Alternately, while I am based in the "Study & Learn" camp I do feel that any individual has the right to proceed in whatever way he chooses whether or not any of us feel that is the best method.
In that scenario, trusted guidance is paramount.
The following is an excerpt from a recent transaction which is a good example of my point that not everyone wants to study or buy resource material.
Dear sir,
You were recommended to me by _____ who assures me that you can help me acquire a real samurai sword. ___ told me he has done business with you for a number of years and that you are well known in the Japanese sword community and well regarded. Being a complete newbie I know literally nothing about Samurai swords other than they are beautiful and have fascinated me since childhood. Now that I am financially able, it is my desire to adopt and care for one of these fascinating weapons. My biggest fear is purchasing one of the fake Japanese swords I have read about.
>Time passes, and many questions are answered.
I have read most of "The Samurai Sword" by John Yumoto as you sent me but truthfully all of the terminology and everything is a bit overwhelming. If possible, I would like you to help me purchase a nice sword now and I can continue reading as I go. I have a budget of approximately $$$$.
>Time passes, and more questions are answered.
The sword arrived home today… safe and sound.
As for the blade… WOW! You were right that it is much nicer in person. And you were also dead on that it is a hefty blade. Very stout.
Summary…
Thank you for the exceptional transaction and the opportunity to care for such a fine piece of history. I am very pleased!
